FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs

 

Where are Manwalk Shoes made?

Our Goodyear Welted shoes are crafted in Almansa, Spain, a place renowned for its rich tradition of quality shoemaking. 

 

What materials does Manwalk use and how to care for my shoes?

Our shoes are crafted using premium leathers sourced from reputable European tanneries. We mainly use Box calf leather and Painted Vitello calf leather for our shoes. Upper leathers for our Patina hand painted shoes are sourced from world renowned Conceria Tolio, Italy. We also prioritise high-quality materials for the insole, outsole, and welt to ensure comfort and durability. To know more about your shoes and their care please go through our document "Know thy Manwalks".

 

Are all Manwalk shoes Goodyear welted shoes?

Although the majority of our shoes are Goodyear welted, some designs like our sneakers and Venetian loafers do not feature this construction method due to their design specifications. To learn more about the construction method used, please refer to the product descriptions in the listings.

 

 Do all Manwalk shoes have stacked leather heel?

Although most of our shoes come with a stacked leather heel, some shoe designs have the heel crafted from the same material as the sole. This is especially notable in shoes with soles like crepe, commando, and dainite soles.

 

How should I store my Goodyear welted shoes when not in use?

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Avoid storing them in plastic bags or airtight containers, as this can trap moisture and potentially damage the leather. Please go through our Shoe Care guide 'Know thy Manwalks' to learn more.

  

Are Manwalk Shoes Made to Order (MTO) and how long does it take to deliver the shoes to me?

Shoes are custom-made upon order. The production starts once a customer's order is received. Our 'Xpress MTO' shoes typically arrive within 2 weeks (with a rare possibility of extension up to 5 weeks). Shoes from our 'Std MTO' line and custom orders are usually delivered within 5-6 weeks. To determine if a pair is Xpress MTO or Std MTO, refer to the 'Delivery & Returns' section of the product. 

 

How do I ascertain which size shoes to buy?

We have 'Sizing guides' in both metric units (mm) and imperial units (Inches). These sizing guides provide instructions on how to measure your foot accurately and include detailed measurements for all lasts. The last measurement tables that are part of the guides can then be used to determine the correct shoe size and width. If you have any inquiries about shoe sizing, don't hesitate to email us your foot measurements at help@manwalk.com.au, and we will recommend the appropriate size for you.

 

Which lasts are the shoes made on?

Our dress shoes are mainly made on 4 shoes lasts:

Z1, M1, S1 and B1

'Z1 - Traditional' is our round toe last for traditional English look. It comes in 'D', 'E' and 'EEE' widths.

'M1 - Classic' is our slightly squared off last for a Classic look. It comes in 'D', 'E' and 'EEE' widths.

'S1 - Sleek' is our slightly chisel toe last for a sleek look. It comes in 'D', 'E' and 'EEE' widths.

'B1 - Chisel' is our chisel toe last with narrow waist and pitched heel. It only comes in two widths 'D' and 'E'. All shoes made on one this last feature 1.34 inch heel instead of the standard 1 inch heel.

We also use several other shoe lasts for our casual shoes and sneakers.

 

Is customisation possible?

Yes, we offer some customisations to our shoes. You may request even more customisations to the existing shoe designs by emailing us at help@manwalk.com.au. Please email us the website listing of the shoe you wish to modify along with details of the desired changes. You can access all possible customisations here. Please be aware that certain customisations may extend the delivery time for Xpress MTO shoes from 2 weeks to 5-6 weeks. Additionally, some customisations result in a price increase.

 

What customisations are possible?

Possible customisations are changing of shoe/boot width from 'EE' to to 'EEE' (extra wide). (extra cost)

Changing of outsole type 

Changing of Outsole bottom and edge colour

Increasing heel height from 1 inch to 1.34 inch

Changing of last on which the shoe is made

Requesting a closed channel sole, narrow waist and brass toe tap on the shoe/boot

Extra toe polishing

 

You may request below customisations by emailing below:

Changing of shoe upper colour

Changing of shoe upper material

Requesting use of two types of materials

Requesting use of two types of colours (two tone shoes)

Requesting your initials (3 letters max) on the side of the heel

Changing of Shoe lining colour

Please be aware that some of the above customisations will increase the price of the product. 

  

What is Goodyear welt construction?

Goodyear welt construction is a shoemaking technique that involves stitching the shoe's upper, insole, and welt (a strip of leather) to the outsole. This method creates a durable and water-resistant shoe known for its longevity and ease of resoling.

 

Why should I choose Goodyear welted shoes?

Goodyear welted shoes are renowned for their durability and comfort. The construction allows for multiple resolings, making them a long-term investment. They also provide excellent support and are often more breathable than cemented or glued shoes. Goodyear welted shoes incorporate a cork footbed in the midsole, offering enhanced comfort as it moulds to the shape of the foot. These shoes are known for their longevity, resulting in a lower cost per wear when compared to less durable, cheaper options.

 

 Are Goodyear welted shoes suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, Goodyear welted shoes are ideal for daily wear. Their construction provides stability and comfort, making them suitable for long hours of use. With proper care, they can withstand various weather conditions and maintain their appearance.

 

Do Goodyear welted shoes require a break-in period?

Yes, like most high-quality leather shoes, Our Goodyear welted shoes need a break-in period for the leather to soften and mould to your foot shape. It's best to wear them for shorter periods until they are fully broken in. To wear new shoes for longer durations before breaking them in, consider applying a band-aid on friction points of your feet, like the little toe and heel.

 

 How can I tell if a shoe is Goodyear welted?

Look for visible stitching along the perimeter of the outsole, often in a distinctive double row. This stitching indicates the presence of a Goodyear welt, which is a hallmark of traditional craftsmanship and durability.

 

Can I wear Goodyear welted shoes in wet weather?

While Goodyear welted shoes are more water-resistant than many other types of footwear, they are not fully waterproof. It's recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to water and to use a water-resistant shoe cream or spray to protect the leather.

 

How do Goodyear welted shoes compare to Blake stitched shoes?

Goodyear welted shoes are typically more costly to produce compared to Blake Stitched shoes. They feature a thicker, sturdier construction and a cork footbed for added comfort. On the other hand, Blake stitched shoes usually have a sleeker and more flexible sole attachment. In general, Goodyear welted shoes are favored for their durability, while Blake stitched shoes are valued for their flexibility. 

Are Goodyear welted shoes suitable for formal occasions?

Yes, Goodyear welted shoes are often considered a classic choice for formal attire due to their elegant appearance and craftsmanship. They pair well with suits and dress trousers, offering both style and comfort.